South Africa Backs 10Year FMD Vaccination Plan
South African Red Meat Body Welcomes National FMD Vaccination Strategy
South Africa’s red meat industry has cautiously welcomed a new 10-year government strategy to vaccinate the national herd against Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD). This comes as the country continues to battle one of its most damaging livestock disease outbreaks in decades.
According to reporting by IOL Business Report, the plan has been broadly supported by the Red Meat Producers’ Organisation. The organisation described vaccination as a necessary step to restore confidence, stabilise production and protect both domestic supply and export potential.
However, industry leaders have raised concerns over the lack of detailed implementation plans, ongoing confusion around roles and responsibilities, and disputes over vaccine availability and access. As a result, the sector has urged authorities to improve communication and coordination to ensure the strategy delivers meaningful results on the ground.
FMD outbreaks have severely disrupted livestock movements and trade, placing pressure on farmers, processors and exporters alike. Industry representatives say a clear, well-resourced vaccination programme is essential if South Africa is to regain disease control and rebuild market confidence.
Source: IOL Business Report | 19 January 2026
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